Our Constitution provides a firm foundation

This article appeared in the October 2024 edition of the Chickasaw Times

It has been more than 40 years since the ratification of the 1983 Chickasaw Constitution, a document of vital importance to the progress, sovereignty and self-determination of our tribe and people.

The great progress of the Chickasaw Nation since that time can be traced to the solid foundation our constitution provides. Those who worked hard to draft and ratify this document did so knowing its significance to our modern government and our future. We truly appreciate their determination and foresight to ensure the longevity and success of our tribal government.

Our constitution is the framework by which our government operates as a sovereign nation to secure the rights of the Chickasaw people. Today, we continue to rely on its guidance as a tool that asserts this inherent sovereignty.

During the time of Indian Territory and following Oklahoma statehood, the federal government enacted several policies aimed at assimilating tribal people and eradicating tribal governments, including the Chickasaw Nation. Our people resisted these often cruel and harsh strategies, and continued to practice our language, culture and community-minded customs.

After years of work to bring about change and restate our inherent right to self-governance, a Chickasaw Nation election took place in 1971, the first such election since statehood. The seeds of reestablishing our tribal government had been sown, and Chickasaws were beginning to see the fruits of much labor.

Officials continued to work with the understanding that a new constitution and, in turn, a new tribal government would need to serve a contemporary society. In 1983, the new Chickasaw Constitution was ratified, reestablishing a three-department system of government to serve Chickasaws long into the future.

In the time since, through strategic planning, hard work and a determination to fulfill our mission, we have continued to progress as a people, and as the Chickasaw Nation you see today.

Beginning in the 1980s, we focused our efforts on economic development to lay a solid financial foundation needed to fulfill our mission. Today, business diversification remains a pillar of our financial strategy, and revenues generated from successful businesses enable us to invest in the future of our tribe and success of Chickasaws everywhere. From educational resources and new and exciting health care programs to quality housing services and cultural opportunities, tribal programs and services are benefiting thousands of Chickasaw citizens, families and our communities each year.

A reflection on the 1983 Chickasaw Constitution is important to understand and appreciate its significance to the growth and progress of the Chickasaw Nation. It also reminds us of the importance of continuing the great work of those who came before us.

Each year, we gather to celebrate this progress and continued work, along with our shared history and culture, during the Chickasaw Annual Meeting and Festival. We come together to honor those who paved the way for the success of today and reaffirm our commitment to our mission to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people and to building an even brighter future.